Gem in the Southern Suburbs

I had the opportunity to dine at Masu Sushi & Robata in Apple Valley three different times in the past few months. Each time, I was met with a friendly greeting, attentive service and delicious food. I really enjoy having a variety of high-quality non-chain restaurants in the suburbs since they can be difficult to find. I really hope the community can support this wonderful restaurant so we are not subject to another failed non-chain restaurant due to lack of interest or not understanding the cuisine.

I absolutely love that they have a bento box option. I have always been a person who enjoys eating a little bit of a lot of different things. Thus, the bento box is a fabulous option - without feeling too gluttonous.

The first time I ordered a bento box I had the vegetable tempura. As I should have known, it was a bit too heavy for lunch time but I ate a small portion of it to satisfy my craving for fried food. Kevin chose to order the shrimp and vegetable tempura this last time so that is what is pictured below.

I began with their miso soup. It's not the best I have had but it was a good filler while waiting for the rest of the food.

Once the bento arrived, it gleamed with tasty options. I began with the spring greens with vinaigrette and was pleasantly surprised by the taste. I could have munched on an entire salad of this. Next, I moved on to the teriyaki covered sticky rice. The teriyaki didn't overpower the rice and it wasn't smothered with it - just enough to give some flavor. The mini spring rolls were fried to perfection and gave just the right amount of crispiness to enjoy three small ones. I was slightly underwhelmed by the zucchini. They were just a bit mushy for my taste and perhaps slightly large to eat all in one bite. The pickled vegetables in the middle of the box were delicious! Even if you think you may not enjoy pickled vegetables - you must try them!

I look forward to going back for dinner at some point so I can try a different portion of their menu. They also offer some fun drink options and a large variety of choices for vegetarians and vegans. Please give this place a try - even if you think you don't like this particular cuisine. Their friendly service and wide variety of menu items encompasses almost any dining companion or picky eater you may have.

Masu Sushi & Robata